Meet Sarah Masoero!

Graduate student, Sarah Masoero, has been very involved with the Disability Resource Center throughout her undergraduate and graduate years at the University of Georgia, serving as a steadfast advocate for students with disabilities. Her exemplary service to the University and to her fellow students makes her this week’s Outstanding Student.

As a freshman, Sarah joined LEAD (Leadership, Education, and Advocacy for Students with Disabilities), a student-run organization dedicated to raising disability awareness on campus and in the Athens community, and was elected co-chair of the organization the following year. Over the years that she was co-chair, LEAD worked closely with the DRC to organize events such as a career panel, a student panel at the Gwinnett college fair, a trip to present at Camp Twin Lakes, and various student panels for UGA students and faculty. Sarah received the Gregory Charles Johnson Scholarship in 2008 for her accomplishments in this area. She was also selected to participate in a conference organized by former President Jimmy Carter. Sarah continues to hone the leadership and advocacy skills that she gained through these experiences by speaking out for greater campus accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Sarah received her undergraduate degree summa cum laude in Avian Biology and is currently pursuing her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Sarah works at the Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, an organization dedicated to diagnosing and studying diseases that affect U.S. wildlife. Upon graduation, she plans to practice veterinary medicine, treating small animals and exotic pets.

 

 

Meet Mai Himedan!

This week’s outstanding student, second-year Mai Himedan, stays busy on and off campus! In all that she does, Mai endeavors to bridge divides and bring people a little bit closer together through open communication and selfless service. Whether she is assisting residents in Brumby Hall or volunteering at Athens Regional Medical Center, Mai lives a life a service to others.

A Resident Assistant in Brumby Hall since last January, Mai strives to facilitate open communication and build a sense of community among the residents. In high school, Mai learned sign language because one of her teammates was deaf. She now continues to sign as an active member of Hear My Hands, the American sign language club on campus, and has served as a TA for a sign language course. Additionally, Mai volunteers in the oncology unit of Athens Regional Medical Center and is a scholar in the Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation (LSAMP) program.

Double majoring in Arabic and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mai plans to attend medical school after she graduates to become an oncologist. Afterward, she hopes to join Doctors Without Borders and put her Arabic to use. When asked to share her favorite thing about Student Affairs, Mai explained, “One of the things I love about Student Affairs is the relationships built through it. Student Affairs at UGA is like a family.” Through her involvement in Student Affairs and her commitment to serving others, Mai truly exemplifies the qualities of an Outstanding Student.

 

 

Meet Adrienne Harrell!

Senior Adrienne Harrell is incomparably committed to personal growth and service to others as evidenced through her involvement at the University of Georgia. Whether working with UGA Hero and the University Union Homecoming Executive Board, or serving as a student worker in the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, Adrienne is constantly seeking ways to enhance her educational experience and ultimately her ability to contribute back to society.

Over the two years that Adrienne has worked in the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, staff members have come to count on her as a full-fledged member of the team. Through her dedication, hard work, dependability, and creativity, Adrienne demonstrates everyday that she is committed to the mission of the office. She has tackled projects far beyond the usual responsibilities of a student worker. For instance, Adrienne coordinated all the details of the dissemination and collection of the CIRP first-year student survey, created the office’s new student worker training materials, and assisted in updating material on the Division’s website.

Majoring in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology with a minor in Child and Family Development, Adrienne plans to go into the medical profession after graduation. Adrienne’s compassion, willingness to help others, and commitment to academic excellence make her a truly Outstanding Student.

 

 

Meet Alan Goodno!

Fourth-year accounting and marketing major, Alan Goodno, stays busy on campus! Alan currently serves as a member of the Arch Society, the National Residence Hall Honorary, and the Student Alumni Council. His exemplary service to the Division of Student Affairs makes him this week’s Outstanding Student!

Since his freshman year, Alan has been very involved with University Housing. He has previously served on the Residence Hall Association, and he currently works as a Village Community Assistant in East Campus Village. As a member of the National Residence Hall Honorary, Alan has participated in numerous community service activities, including the MLK Day of Service, projects at the Morton Theatre, and visits to the Iris Place nursing home.  As a member of the Student Alumni Council, Alan has been instrumental in resurrecting the G Book, the official traditions handbook for UGA students. 

Alan credits his involvement with the Division of Student Affairs, and his membership in the Arch Society in particular, with helping him to forge lasting friendships and further develop his leadership skills. “I have always said that my extracurricular activities are what have defined my college experience at UGA. They have given me real-life leadership experiences, provided me with skills to grow and develop as an individual in the classroom, and helped introduce me to my best friends. Student Affairs has played an enormous role in my time at UGA!”

 

 

Meet Jenna Chancey!

Sophomore Jenna Chancey has been an active leader within the UGA residential community since she first stepped foot on campus. She has demonstrated impeccable leadership and organizational skills as a student ambassador for fellow residents and co-workers.

During her freshmen year in Brumby Hall, Jenna served as a Residence Hall Association Representative and was inducted into the National Residence Hall Honorary, the top 1% of student leaders living in Housing communities. As a sophomore, Jenna now serves as the Chair for the East Campus Village Community Board and works as an Office Assistant in the East Campus Village Community Office. Jenna always looks for ways to utilize individuals’ strengths and talents to enhance the work of the ECV Board.  Through her involvement with Housing, Jenna has also been able to explore her own strengths and develop new skills: “I have learned so much about myself through the leadership opportunities I have been given through Housing.”

This summer Jenna will be studying abroad in Greece with the Global L.E.A.D. (Leadership, Education, Adventure, and Diplomacy) program, and she looks forward to meeting new people, experiencing another culture, and overcoming new challenges. Jenna does not yet know what career she will pursue after she graduates, but she is confident that her experiences at UGA will prepare her for whatever lies ahead.

 

 

 

Meet Dali Adekunle!

Freshman Dali Adekunle has been known to challenge her peers on issues of race, gender, and diversity. A dedicated member of Sustained Dialogue Campus Network, Dali shares her unique perspective with those around her and works to bridge the lines of communication across campus.

In her first year on campus, Dali has enmeshed herself in campus activities and organizations. Dali is a member of the Black Theatrical Ensemble and performed last semester in the play The Colored Museum. Dali is also very active with Sustained Dialogue Campus Network, an organization that creates a safe space in which students can discuss their experiences about topics such as race, culture, religion, and social issues. In addition, Dali is a member of the African Student Association on campus and is active in her residential community of Brumby Hall.

 

 

Meet Elizabeth Fersen!

Fifth-year Elizabeth Fersen served as a Resident Assistant her sophomore year and has worked as an Office Assistant for the Department of Housing ever since. In addition, she worked with the Georgia Recruitment Team in the Admissions Office for three years and was a four-year member and captain of the University of Georgia Women’s Lacrosse team.

Coming from a small town in Vermont, Elizabeth was intimidated by the daunting size of the University when she first arrived in Athens, but she soon began to feel at home as she made friends in her dorm.  Her sophomore year, she served as a Resident Advisor and loved having the opportunity to impact her residents’ first-year experiences. Many of these same students are nearing graduation, and Elizabeth enjoys seeing how they have matured since their freshmen year.

 

Meet Annie Sokol!

While studying to become a middle school teacher, fourth-year Annie Sokol works as a Facility Manager at the Ramsey Student Center. Annie stands out for her strong work ethic and initiative in taking on extra responsibilities to help those around her. Annie sets an exceptional example through her dedication to Rec Sports and to the overall betterment of the University of Georgia.

As a Facility Manager in Informal Recreation at Ramsey, Annie’s many responsibilities include opening and closing the facility, being a first responder for all accidents and incidents, supervising all student staff, and acting as a liaison between professional and student staff. Annie is a self-starter whose hard work has not gone unnoticed by her supervisors and co-workers. They note that Annie picks up shifts for co-workers, arrives early or stays late to help set up for major events, conducts tours of the facility, and interviews and trains new staff members outside of her regularly scheduled work hours. For her part, Annie would credit her amazing co-workers and supervisors at Ramsey for creating a fun and stress-free environment in which to work and grow as a person.

Annie will graduate in May 2011 with a degree in Middle School Education. She just completed her first semester of student teaching in a 6th grade classroom, and next semester she hopes to work in an 8th grade classroom. Annie is also very involved with UGA HERO, serving as an upperclassmen team leader. Through her continued levels of performance and her involvement with Rec Sports, Annie sets an excellent standard of dedication for those around her, and she truly exemplifies the qualities of an Outstanding Student.

 

Meet Scott Sumner!

Scott Sumner, a fourth-year student, exemplifies what it means to serve others. As Chair of Community Service for The Arch Society, Scott goes above and beyond the call of duty to develop relationships with community agencies and motivate fellow students to take an active role in their community.

Scott’s years at UGA have been underscored by his dedication to community service. Scott has been a philanthropist with UGA HERO, and he is currently working with Volunteer UGA in support of their Dawgs for Haiti campaign. As community service chair for The Arch Society, Scott has arranged opportunities for members to volunteer at a variety of Athens locations, including the Northeast Georgia Food Bank, Mental Health of American Northeast Georgia, and the Boys and Girls Club of Athens. “What we all must realize,” Scott says, “is even the smallest act of love and compassion can change the life of an individual, and even change the world.”

Scott hopes to combine his passion for writing and traveling to become an international journalist. After graduation he would like to intern in Washington, D.C. for National Geographic. He is also considering supplementing his bachelor’s degree in International Affairs with a masters degree in journalism.

 

 

Meet Billy Dupee!

Those who frequently visit the pool at the Ramsey Student Center may run in to junior Billy Dupee, an Aquatics Manager for Recreational Sports. Billy manages to keep up with the demands of school while also finding time to play intramural basketball and soccer, tutor accounting at the Tutoring Zone, and work at Ramsey.

As an Aquatics Manager, Billy helps to manage the day-to-day functioning of the Ramsey pools, including coordinating life-guards and answering patrons’ questions. His hard work, dedication, and dependability have not gone unnoticed by his supervisors: “I always know that things will run smoothly at the pool when Billy is around.” Billy enjoys the fun and relaxed atmosphere of working in Aquatics, not to mention the special job perks: “One of the most unique things I have done while working in the aquatics department is jumping off the 10 meter platform.”

After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Billy plans to also get his masters degree in Accounting through Terry College’s MACC program. After that, Billy hopes to pursue a career in the public accounting sector.

 

 

 

 

Meet Monique Constance! 

Those who encounter senior Monique Constance will notice one thing above all others: her radiant smile. Whether she is working in the Student Activities and Organizations Office or volunteering with Service Ambassadors, Monique simply exudes joy. Her various activities are all underscored by a desire to help others.

Monique is involved with Service Ambassadors, a new program within the Center for Leadership and Service that helps connect UGA student organizations with volunteer opportunities in the Athens-Clarke County community. She also tutors at Fowler Drive Elementary and serves as the Fashion Show Coordinator for the African Student Union.

Monique has enjoyed working in the Division of Student Affairs for all of her undergraduate career. “The thing I enjoy most about this environment is the first-hand perspective I get to see of people who genuinely care about the well-being of the students here at the University. Oftentimes, students do not know the commitment that is given to our well-being, and seeing that first hand is a wonderful thing.”

After graduation in July, Monique would like supplement her International Affairs major and Spanish minor with a master’s degree in Public Relations. First, however, she hopes to travel for a year, specifically to Ghana and Argentina.

 

 

Meet Austin Agerter! 

Senior Austin Agerter brings energy and dedication to all his pursuits, despite the challenges of balancing school, work, and campus involvement. Austin has been active on campus since freshman year, but his current involvement on the Executive Board for Relay for Life has been especially rewarding for him. Austin brings his signature enthusiasm to his work as an employee of the department of Campus Life.

Austin shows exceptional work ethic in his role in Campus Life and has a knack for problem-solving. In addition to his exemplar job performance, Austin volunteered to work all of the Thanksgiving break shifts so that other workers could enjoy time off with their families. Austin likes working at the “epicenter” of UGA and enjoys the day-to-day variety that Campus Life provides: “You never know what to expect—it’s a different job every day.” 

Austin is a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, previously serving as its Vice President, and has been involved with SGA and UGAMiracle in the past. Austin maintains a busy extra-curricular schedule all while double-majoring in Finance and Accounting. He hopes to one day be his own boss in investing and real estate development, but for the time being he would be happy to get experience at an accounting firm after graduation.

  

 

Meet Holly Kamau!

Junior Holly Kamau is passionate about student service and leadership opportunities at The University of Georgia.  As President of the Multicultural Greek Council, Holly is an active member of the Delta Phi Lambda sorority and leader within the Greek community. She is also a student in the Terry College of Business, and one day she hopes to use her marketing degree to promote her own business within the music industry.

The Multicultural Greek Council is a governing body within Greek Life that oversees eight multicultural Greek organizations and their philanthropies.  As their President, Holly has become an active leader within the Greek and UGA communities.  She is always willing to go beyond her requisite duties as President to serve on various committees and speak on behalf of numerous organizations. 

Although she is studying Marketing, Holly is also pursuing a minor in Music as well as a certificate in Leadership and Service.  Her passion for service and music has led her to consider joining Teach for America as a music teacher after graduation.  She has also thought about using her skills and education to enter into the music and entertainment industry in some capacity.  Regardless of how her future unfolds, Holly feels that her work in the Vice President for Student Affairs office and Greek Life has prepared her for whatever challenges she may face.

 

Meet Casey Bruce!

Junior Casey Bruce uses everyday as an opportunity to positively impact others.  While pursuing two degrees, she is involved in numerous volunteer and leadership activities both on campus and within the Athens community.  Her efforts can be seen in areas ranging from University Housing to InFUsion Magazine and various community organizations.

As a Resident Assistant with University Housing, Case Bruce understands what it means to be an active member of the University community.  In addition to fulfilling her responsibilities in Payne Hall, Casey serves as the Editor-in-Chief of InfUSion Magazine and is a member of the Black Affairs Council, where she was a former Advisory Board Member.  She is a double major in Magazines and Film Studies and member of the National Association of Black Journalists.  Moreover, her involvement in Athens goes beyond the UGA campus.  Casey is an active member of the Girl Scouts, and she has started two Girl Scout Troops in Athens – one at Gaines School Elementary and one at the Rocksprings Community Center. 

     
 After graduation Casey hopes to join the Teach for America program and then attend graduate school to study mass communication.  Casey attributes the Division of Student Affairs with providing her opportunities to develop leadership skills and learn about groups which she would not have otherwise. Her participation in campus organizations has provided her with a “home away from home” and for this she is extremely grateful.  Through her involvement in University Housing and her commitment to community service, Casey truly exemplifies the qualities of an Outstanding Student. 

 

Meet Nancye Lee!

Nancye Lee is currently enrolled in the Masters of Social Work program at the UGA Gwinnett campus.  After two successful careers she has returned to school where she plays an active role in the organization of the Gwinnett MSW Student/Faculty Committee.  As a non-traditional student in a graduate program, and mother of three, Nancye thrives on staying active on and off campus.

Nancye is now in her second year as a full-time Masters of Social Work student.  Although she is still undecided as to how she hopes to use her degree, she is considering the area of mental health advocacy.  Outside of the classroom she directs her efforts towards the initiation and organization of the Gwinnett MSW Student/Faculty Committee.  This group is designed to help facilitate and strengthen communication between students and their professors. 

     
As a non-traditional student, Nancye has used her graduate experience to pursue a new direction and explore opportunities outside of her past careers.  Prior to starting her degree, Nancye had two successful careers in the areas of finance and career training, but decided to leave her job in pursuit of her life-long goal of attending graduate school.  Through her short time at UGA, Nancye has exemplified the qualities of leadership, determination, and commitment which truly embody what it means to be an Outstanding Student.   

 

Meet Tim Reed!

This week’s outstanding student, senior Tim Reed, is especially active on campus.  He is a member of the Executive Council of University Judiciary, volunteers for the Office of Judicial Programs, and is involved with various student organizations at UGA.  Amazingly Tim is able to strike a balance between his many roles on campus and his role as a student pursuing a double major.

Tim’s responsibilities as a council member and the director of parking appeals for University Judiciary include helping to facilitate the formal hearing process and ensuring that appeals are carried out fairly.  In addition to this formal role, he volunteers his time in the Office of Judicial Programs. As a volunteer, he assists with a range of tasks which have included answering the phone, packing and moving to new office facilities, inventorying office supplies, and participating in additional hearings during the summer.  Additionally Tim can be seen around campus, as he has been a bus driver for Campus Transit for the past two years.

 
 Although he is a fourth year history major, he recently added a degree in religion which will require him to remain in school for an additional year.  After graduation he hopes to attend law school and then pursue a higher degree in history.  When asked how his involvement in Student Affairs has affected him, Tim explained that these opportunities have given him a unique perspective on students and have helped him developed into the individual he is today.  Through his involvement in Student Affairs coupled with his commitment to his educational aspirations, Tim truly exemplifies the qualities of an Outstanding Student.    

Meet Leanne Hancock!

Junior Leanne Hancock has worked with the Department of Campus Life since March, but in that short period of time she has made an excellent impression.  As a student employee, she balances her school work and extracurricular activities with a challenging work schedule and late hours.  Leanne sets an exceptional example through her dedication to the Tate Center, to Campus Life’s daily operations, and to the overall betterment of the University of Georgia.

Leanne is studying geology, and she is involved in Relay for Life and the Geology Club. Her positive demeanor, sense of humor, and dependability have made a positive impact on those around her, and her supervisors describe her as a “valuable” asset within their department. She completes all assignments beyond expectations, volunteers to cover additional late-night and early morning shifts, is responsible for closing and securing the building at night, and helps troubleshoot various building issues.

 

Leanne is always ready to help in the event that someone is absent, ensuring that after-hours operations remain consistent.  Additionally, she has been willing to work multiple football Saturdays where she has helped manage increased visitor traffic and unforeseen issues which have occurred.  Through her continued levels of performance and her involvement in Campus Life, Leanne sets an excellent standard of dedication for those around her and she truly exemplifies the qualities of an Outstanding Student.    

 

 

Meet Dana Schroeder!

Sophomore Dana Schroeder has been an active member of the University Housing community since enrolling in UGA in the fall of 2008.  In her short time on campus, she has worked diligently on sustainability efforts and recycling programs within the residence halls and has been instrumental in other green initiatives sponsored by University Housing.

As a freshman in Creswell Hall, Dana became involved with the Community Council, in which she assisted with sustainability efforts and was critical in facilitating Creswell’s participation in RecycleMania.  Currently, as a resident of Reed Hall, she is an active member of the Reed Hall Council where she has shown continued dedication to both UGA and the Division of Student Affairs.   In addition to her work for the Council, she is planning a river clean-up, another recycling project, and has already begun planning for Earth Day 2010!

 

Dana’s dedication to the environment has influenced her professional aspirations as well.  She is currently pursuing a degree in Environmental Economics and Management through the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences with hopes of continuing her involvement in environmental issues after graduation.  Through her involvement in University Housing and her commitment to sustainability efforts, Dana truly exemplifies the qualities of an Outstanding Student.